‘A real difference’: how community hubs help local people fight rising living costs

Community hubs across the UK are providing financial respite to households by offering free or low-cost support services, including financial advice, health services, and social activities, under one roof. The East Twickenham Neighbourhood Association (ETNA) centre in London, open 365 days a year, welcomes more than 1,400 people each week [1]. Its director, Vanessa James, said the hub supports a wide range of needs. "With the rising cost of living, spaces like ETNA can make a real difference," she said [1]. Services include a "pay as you feel" cafe run with the Real Junk Food Project, using food that would otherwise be discarded, and free financial guidance through a Manage Your Money program in partnership with Citizens Advice [1]. One visitor said a staff member discovered a benefit they were owed. "It's been backdated. I am so very grateful," the visitor said [1]. More than 50 miles south, the Hangleton and Knoll Project operates from St Richard's community centre in Brighton [1]. Ann Tizzard, the centre's manager, said 67 groups currently run from the multiservice hub [1]. "The vision was always to bring everyone together and have multiple services under one roof," Tizzard said [1]. She noted an increase in daytime visitors since the Covid lockdown, with many worried about living costs. Most activities are free or low cost [1]. These hubs form part of a wider network of about 21,000 community centres and halls across the UK, according to a 2025 report by the thinktank New Local [1]. The model echoes historical approaches to poverty reduction, which have long recognized that aid and government support in health, education, and infrastructure can strengthen human and physical capital [5]. The ETNA centre also houses counselling drop-ins, self-help groups, and digital support, reflecting what James described as a draw toward spaces that combine multiple services in a trusted setting [1]. "It feels more natural, less clinical and more welcoming," she said [1]. At ETNA, 94-year-old Eric Ruggier, a former South African table tennis champion, said he had given up the game for years before resuming it at the centre. "I have had many enjoyable afternoons at ETNA playing table tennis," he said. "It is a lovely, friendly place and often you are offered tea or coffee or snacks. The staff are all very friendly and helpful" [1]. James said people are also seeking companionship and a sense of belonging [1].